Help Support Gary Vessel’s Stroke Recovery

Hello, this is Gary’s son, Dylan. On Wednesday, May 7th, 2025, my father, Gary Vessel, suffered a severe stroke and is currently in the hospital receiving critical care. He is lucky to be alive. While there have been some early encouraging signs in his recovery, the road ahead remains uncertain and will require intensive rehabilitation, long-term therapy, and full-time support.

Gary is one of the most respected and skilled luthiers in the world—a true master of his craft. His instruments are played and treasured by musicians across the globe, and his shop has been a hub of creativity, dedication, and community for decades. But beyond his skill, Gary is beloved for his generosity, warmth, passion, humor, and quiet strength. Anyone who’s met him knows how deeply he cares about the people around him, and that his love for music knows no bounds.

Unfortunately, due to some administrative issues with the state, my dad was uninsured at the time of his stroke. I am working diligently to get him retroactive coverage and will continue to look into alternative solutions, of which there are many, but those things take time, which we simply don’t have. He will be facing massive medical bills for the hospital stay, emergency services, procedures, and ongoing care. On top of that, he will be unable to work or run his shop for the foreseeable future, meaning his income—and the business he built with his own hands—is at risk.

We’re starting this GoFundMe to make sure my dad is supported with everything he needs to recover, without the added burden of financial uncertainty. Funds will go toward:

• Medical bills from the hospital, emergency room, and ambulance

• Inpatient rehabilitation and follow-up therapy

• At-home care, medical equipment, and medications

• Business expenses to preserve his shop during his recovery

• Living costs while he’s unable to work

If you know Gary personally, you know he would never ask for this kind of help himself. So we’re asking on his behalf. Whether you’re a client, colleague, musician, or friend—your support means everything to our family right now.

Thank you for standing with Gary in this incredibly difficult time. Every donation, share, and message of support helps more than we can say.

With love and gratitude,

– The Vessel Family